Creative Writing: Poetry and Poetics

Description

This course explores the various forms of poetry and the poetic ideas which inform them. Traditional as well as open forms are examined in detail, supplemented by readings of poetic theory from a historical range of sources. Students will learn about the nexus between theory and creative practice. They will study the specialised skills and techniques that turn an experience or memory into a compelling poem.

Availability

Callaghan

Semester 1 - 2015

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the various forms of poetry;

2. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the techniques involved in shaping a poem

3. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the poetic ideas and theories which inform particular kinds of poetry;

4. Demonstrate core skills in written communication, in textual analysis and in creative practice.

5. Demonstrate exposure to an array of voices from the local to the global and have started to develop their own voice.

Content

Poetry is an integral part of major creative writing programs. As good poets devour poetry all the time, students will embark on an intensive reading program, reading poetry from a variety of periods. They will study postmodern and contemporary trends and be encouraged to be more experimental in poem-making. The reading will enhance their critical skills in assessing their own work and that of their fellow students. They will learn to work with drafts and envision their work as a coherent collection.

Particular attention will be paid to

Developments in Australian and world poetry

Discovering literary models

Envisioning the portfolio as a coherent collection

Working with drafts, revising and editing.

Assessment Items

Written Assignment: Short Portfolio

Essay: Reflective Essay

Portfolio: Final Portfolio

Participation: Workshop participation

Compulsory Requirements

In order to pass this course, each student must complete ALL of the following compulsory requirements:

General Course Requirements:

Seminar: Attendance Requirement - Students must attend a minimum number of these sessions. - Due to the practical nature of this course students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of classes.